Choosing the best consultant for your business needs can be a daunting, if not harrowing task. It’s tempting to jump straight in, do a quick Google search, make a call and be done with it. But how do you know if you’ve selected the right person for the job? Many of your fears can be allayed if you’re clear about what you want and need before you pick up the phone.

  • What do you need? Be very clear about your requirements.
  • Are you looking for someone who will solve a problem you have identified , or are you looking for someone who will assist you in identifying and clarifying a problem?
  • With that in mind, what are the objectives of the project?  What are your expected results?
  • Do you have a required completion date?  Is it realistic?
  • What resources are you able to commit to the project in terms of time, budget, administration, and equipment?
  • What level of involvement and interaction do you want from the consultant?
  • What’s your budget?

Defining your project is a critical first step in the consultant selection process helping to create a positive project experience.  Determining the scope and objectives of the project enables you to establish a clear framework for your project within which you will expect the selected consultant to work. If during this process you’ve identified an ongoing need for your business, this is an ideal opportunity to test how effectively this need can be met within a specific period. It may help you view your perceived needs in a new light. Being clear about how you want the project to look from the start allows you to embark on the selection process with a clear mind, clear goals and important knowledge for selecting the right consultant for the project.